mismatch
UK: ˌmɪsˈmætʃ | US: ˌmɪsˈmætʃ
n. a failure to correspond or align properly
vt. to pair or combine unsuitably
The word "mismatch" combines the prefix "mis-" (from Old English, meaning "wrong" or "badly") with the root "match" (from Old English "gemæcca," meaning "companion" or "equal"). The prefix "mis-" negates or reverses the meaning of "match," creating the idea of an improper or unsuitable pairing. This logical construction reflects the word's function in describing discordance or incompatibility.
The mismatch between his skills and the job requirements led to poor performance.
Her socks were a glaring mismatch—one blue, one green.
The software update caused a mismatch in the data formats.
Their personalities were a complete mismatch, making collaboration difficult.
The referee noticed a mismatch in the teams' skill levels early in the game.